Renowned Archeologist Bestowed with David Prize
Introducing Bidemi Babalola, a distinguished Nigerian archaeologist and the second Nigerian to be bestowed with the esteemed $300,000 Dan David Prize.
As a research archaeologist stationed at the British Museum in London, Babalola has etched his name in history by winning the world’s most substantial award for historical research.
Babalola was celebrated with this prestigious accolade at a ceremony in Italy on May 28. The Dan David Prize recognizes exceptional contributions in historical scholarship, honoring individuals whose pioneering work enhances our comprehension of bygone eras.
Among nine global scholars acknowledged this year, Babalola’s commendation stems from a revolutionary archaeological finding that affirmed the indigenous origins of glass bead production in Africa, challenging entrenched academic beliefs.
Historically, many academics posited that Africa’s glass bead production was influenced by external forces or imports.
Yet, through thorough excavations in Ile-Ife, Osun State, and two decades of meticulous laboratory research, Babalola illustrated that ancient African civilizations independently mastered advanced glassmaking techniques.
His research has unveiled a novel realm in African civilization studies, providing insights that redefine previously accepted narratives regarding technological advancements on the continent.
Babalola’s triumph follows closely on the heels of Nigerian historian Professor Saheed Aderinto’s receipt of the Dan David Prize last year.
The two scholars share a longstanding camaraderie, having forged their friendship as undergraduates at the University of Ibadan in 1998, and maintaining it ever since.
With this accolade, Babalola becomes the second alumnus from the University of Ibadan to secure the Dan David Prize, further cementing the institution’s burgeoning reputation for nurturing globally acclaimed scholars within the humanities.
His accomplishment marks not only a personal landmark but also a pivotal moment for African historical scholarship, underscoring the continent’s potential to generate world-class research deeply anchored in its own cultural legacy.
